Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a deliciously vibrant meal that can brighten up your weeknights, look no further than this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner. This recipe is close to my heart because it brings together the sweetness of pineapple and the savory goodness of marinated chicken, all on one convenient pan! It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something that’s not only quick to prepare but also full of flavor. Trust me, your family will love gathering around the table for this tropical delight.

Whether you’re hosting a casual family gathering or just need a simple meal after a long day, this dish checks all the boxes. You’ll enjoy the colorful presentation and delightful taste that make every bite feel like a mini-vacation in Hawaii!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a wholesome meal ready in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: The combination of chicken and sweet pineapple is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
• One-pan convenience: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can marinate the chicken earlier in the day for even more flavor.
• Deliciously flavorful: The savory-sweet sauce makes every bite irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is how simple and wholesome the ingredients are! You won’t need to hunt down anything fancy; just fresh produce and pantry staples come together beautifully in this dish.

For the Chicken and Vegetables

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your tastes or what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Feel free to replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Try including broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the fruit: Instead of pineapple, mango or peaches could add a sweet touch.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha if you prefer some heat in your dish.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine your chicken pieces with soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that every piece of chicken is beautifully coated with flavor. Let it marinate for about 10–15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables—this little step makes a big difference!

Step 2: Prepare Your Sheet Pan

Spread those vibrant diced red and yellow bell peppers along with onion wedges and drained pineapple chunks evenly on a large sheet pan. This colorful mix not only looks appealing but also adds layers of texture and sweetness as they roast together.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to place your marinated chicken pieces atop the bed of veggies and pineapple on the sheet pan. Pour any leftover marinade over everything—it’s packed with flavor! This step ensures that all ingredients soak up all those delicious juices as they bake.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Slide that beautiful sheet pan into your preheated oven. Bake for about 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through so everything cooks evenly. Keep an eye on it; using a meat thermometer will help ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If it’s not quite there yet, give it an extra few minutes in the oven.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once it’s perfectly cooked, remove your dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps lock in those juicy flavors! Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving warm over steamed rice or quinoa—these sides are fantastic at soaking up that savory sauce.

And there you have it—your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! It’s bound to become a favorite in your home just like it has in mine. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Creating a delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is a breeze, and a few simple tips can elevate your dish even more!

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10–15 minutes (or longer if you have time) enhances the flavor, making each bite juicy and full of that tropical taste.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones. Fresh bell peppers and onions add vibrant color and better texture to your dish.

• Even Spacing on the Pan: Arrange the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on the sheet pan. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming, which can make your ingredients soggy.

• Swap Out Vegetables: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding or substituting other veggies like zucchini or snap peas. This not only adds variety but also boosts nutritional value.

• Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees food safety and juicy chicken every time!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Serving your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner can be just as fun as preparing it! Here are some ideas to present your meal beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of green onions adds a fresh crunch and enhances the dish’s visual appeal.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds give a lovely nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice just before serving brightens up the dish and adds a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice is perfect for soaking up the savory-sweet sauce from your chicken dinner.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this dish, offering extra freshness.

• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus brings a nice crunch and earthy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the chicken.

• Coconut Rice: For an added tropical touch, serve your Hawaiian Chicken over coconut-infused rice. The subtle coconut flavor complements the dish perfectly!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your table! Enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely.
• Place individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in the microwave until heated through, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner that might help you along your cooking journey!

Can I use other vegetables in this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas based on your preference. Just keep an eye on cooking times as some veggies may require less time.

How can I customize the marinade for my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

You can experiment with different flavors by adding teriyaki sauce, sriracha for heat, or swapping honey for maple syrup. The options are endless based on what you enjoy!

What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad for added crunch.

How long does it take to make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

The total time to prepare this dish is about 45 minutes, including marinating and baking. It’s quick and perfect for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner brings a burst of tropical flavor to your table! It’s such a delightful and easy way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I’m excited for you to try making it! Please share your experiences and any tweaks you make—I love hearing from fellow cooking enthusiasts! Enjoy every bite!